[For Seniors] Recommended Spring Songs for People in Their 70s: A Collection of Nostalgic Spring Tunes

Flowershouka

Hana (Flower) — Rentarō Taki (children’s song/school song)

Hana is a song by Rentarō Taki that delicately depicts the warm scenery of spring.

The lyrics, inspired by literature such as Su Shi’s poem Spring Night and The Tale of Genji, are filled with reflections on the fleeting, once-in-a-lifetime beauty found in nature and the emotions it evokes.

Through words that question the irreplaceability of these scenes, the composer’s deep sensibility shines through.

First published in 1900 as part of the song collection Four Seasons, it has long remained beloved.

It’s a perfect piece for springtime cherry-blossom viewing or whenever you wish to feel the changing of the seasons.

Sakura (Solo)Moriyama Naotaro

Naotaro Moriyama – Sakura (Solo)

“Sakura” is a classic song that entrusts cherry blossoms with life’s milestones, farewells, and bonds that never change.

Even as the seasons shift, it is cherished as a song that preserves promises in the heart and cheers on those embarking on new journeys.

Sung with heartfelt emotion by Naotaro Moriyama, the track was released in March 2003 and became a massive hit after being chosen as the theme for the TV program “Sekai Ururun Taizai-ki.” Though a hit from the Heisei era, it’s likely familiar even to people in their 70s.

Whether you’re facing a life milestone with the coming of spring or experiencing a farewell with someone important, why not turn to this song? It will surely give you the courage to take a new step forward.

hometownshouka

Furusato (♪ The mountain where we chased rabbits ~) by Himawari ×4 [Chorus] With Lyrics [One of Japan’s 100 Famous Songs] FURUSATO Hometown |

Blue mountains, pure waters, and memories of childhood play.

The gentle melody that wraps these scenes of a beloved hometown, along with feelings for family and friends living far away, holds a universal appeal that resonates with everyone.

First published in 1914 as a Ministry of Education school song, this piece was created by Tatsuyuki Takano and Teiichi Okano, vividly reflecting the rural landscapes and lifestyles of Japan at the time.

It was sung at the closing ceremony of the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, moving countless people.

Its simple, memorable melody in G major and triple meter continues to be sung at life’s milestones, such as graduation and coming-of-age ceremonies.

With lyrics and melody that evoke nostalgia, it is truly a song that stands by all who live away from their hometowns—a work that can be said to symbolize the heart of Japan.

Like a flower that blooms in the fieldDa Kāpo

Like a flower that blooms in the field

A song that celebrates wildflowers living robustly in nature—swayed by the wind and beaten by the rain.

Through its lyrics, it portrays the beauty of living flexibly and strongly even when facing difficulties and challenges in life.

It was also used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “The Adventures of Naked General” (1980–1997), and due to many requests for a record release, it was issued as a single on July 21, 1983.

Beloved enough to be included in elementary school music textbooks, it has been covered by many choirs and artists.

It’s the kind of song you want to listen to precisely when times are tough.

What a nice bath.Za Dorifutāzu

Nice hot bath [The Drifters]

This is a song that celebrates the charms of hot spring resorts, beloved from the Showa-era hit TV program “It’s 8 o’clock! Everybody, Gather Round!” The original version, sung by the Duke Aces, was themed around hot spring areas in Gunma Prefecture, and The Drifters covered it on the B-side of their debut single.

The lyrics were adapted to feature hot spring resorts across Japan—such as Noboribetsu and Kusatsu—expressing fondness for onsen through a lively rhythm and call-and-response shouts.

The song was used as the ending theme for both “It’s 8 o’clock! Everybody, Gather Round!” and “Drifters’ Big Laughter,” and it also appeared in a 1969 film.

Humming it together with older adults while reminiscing about hot spring trips can make for a heartwarming moment.

Happy HinamatsuriSakushi: Satō Hachirō / Sakkyoku: Kawamura Kōyō

Happy Hinamatsuri | With Lyrics | 100 Selected Songs of Japan | Let's light the lanterns

There’s a heartwarming song that enhances the festive mood of Hinamatsuri.

“Ureshii Hinamatsuri” is beloved by a wide range of generations, from children to older adults.

Created by Hachiro Sato and Koyo Kawamura, it has been sung for many years since its release in 1936.

Its charm lies in lyrics that gently depict the scenes and joy of the Doll Festival, paired with a bright and lively melody.

It’s also a song you often hear on TV and radio every March.

How about humming it together with older family members at Hinamatsuri events or during family gatherings? It will surely bring back fond memories.

If you’re happy and you know it, clap your handsSakamoto Kyu

Kyu Sakamoto / If You’re Happy and You Know It (1964–65)

Its charm lies in the way you can enjoy it by expressing a heartwarming classic through full-body movement.

It’s a song that lets you share the joy of connecting with others along with a simple, familiar melody.

Released by Kyu Sakamoto in 1964, it became one of his signature songs alongside “Ue o Muite Arukou” (“Sukiyaki”).

Based on an American folk song, Toshito Kimura wrote the Japanese lyrics with wishes for peace and friendship.

A heartwarming experience in the Philippines inspired the creation of this song, and it is said to have spread through activities at the YMCA.

It has been widely used in films and commercials and has long been cherished in educational settings.

Why not enjoy clapping and body movements together with seniors and let the conversation blossom with fond memories?